Have you ever jumped into the shower after a run, thought everything was great until the water hit your inner thighs - then you screamed like a little girl? If the answer is yes, then you have probably experienced chafing. Chafing occurs when persistent rubbing causes a red, irritated area of skin. This can occur as a result of skin on skin contact, like on the inner thighs or the underarms. It can also occur as a result of skin on clothing contact, like at the bra line for women or the nipples for men. So, what can we do to fix this?
Buy dry-fit clothing that fits properly. Clothing that is too tight may cause pressure points, where clothing that is too loose causes the extra fabric to rub. Also, try to find clothing that is tagless and seamless, if possible. There are several sports lubrication products available, like Body Glide and Lanacane. Other products, like Aquaphor or Vaseline are also helpful. Body Glide is sold at running stores everywhere and looks like a stick of deodorant. Simply apply it to the areas that are vulnerable or areas you have had problems with chafing in the past. For men, nipple protectors or bandages may be helpful. Most marathons will have Vaseline available on the course (you will see a person handing out what appears to be a popsicle stick with a big gob of goo on the end).
If you have chafing, it's going to hurt initially when it gets wet. Clean the area with soap and water and apply antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin or bacitracin. And remember to keep your skin moisturized - dry skin tends to chafe more.
Next week - why you should drink your chocolate milk.
Happy and chafe free running,
Jennifer
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